Cultivating environmental stewards: The Forest School experience

Heathside School Hampstead share the benefits of Forest Schools and how they help to nurture individuality and a lifelong love of learning.

In today's fast-paced, technology-driven world, the traditional classroom isn't the only place where learning happens. More and more educators are recognising the value of an outdoor education, with Forest Schools leading the way. Taking children out of the conventional classroom and into the heart of nature has been shown to enrich their learning experiences.

At Heathside School Hampstead, the commitment to Forest School education is not just an extracurricular activity; it's an integral part of their educational philosophy. Here, students call North London’s famous heath their playground, classroom and teacher, forging a profound connection with nature that shapes them into environmentally responsible citizens.

Headteacher, Nadia Ward, says: "We firmly believe that taking the learning outdoors not only safeguards the essence of childhood but also encourages a more inclusive approach to play and exploration, free from the constraints of digital devices.

“Nature becomes the canvas for their creativity, fostering a sense of equality and empowerment as they learn and grow together. This not only promotes physical activity and well-being but also nurtures social skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.”

In an age where screen time often supersedes outdoor adventures, Heathside stands firm in its commitment to providing a holistic education whilst not compromising on academic excellence.

Forest School emphasises hands-on exploration. In the forest, every fallen leaf, bird's nest, and stream holds a lesson waiting to be discovered. Children are encouraged to touch, feel, smell, and experience the natural world firsthand.

Nadia explains that this sensory engagement sparks curiosity and wonder, driving a deeper understanding of concepts like biology, ecology, and geology. Students also have the space and opportunity to make decisions, take risks, and explore their own interests. This autonomy builds self-confidence and encourages them to take ownership of their learning and discover their own strengths, invaluable lessons for personal growth.

“Our approach equips students with not only knowledge but also critical thinking skills, creativity, adaptability, and a strong sense of character - all attributes they’ll need to flourish in a rapidly changing world.

“At Heathside, we cherish children’s formative years and give them the space and freedom to learn. Their individuality is celebrated, and this personalised approach allows students to thrive academically.”

The natural world is a constant source of inspiration for every child. Forest Schools harness this creativity by encouraging children to use natural materials for their own artistic expression. Whether it's building a fairy house from sticks and leaves or painting with mud, these activities ignite a child's imagination. Creative play encourages communication, and collaboration, all while nurturing a love for art and self-expression.

Heathside takes the learning beyond the theoretical and into the real world. Children engage in authentic, practical activities like building shelters, identifying plants and animals, and cooking over an open fire. These experiences provide a tangible context for subjects like science, maths, and history, making learning more relevant and memorable. Applying what they have learnt, students are able to use these skills of ingenuity in the technology hub, working on robotics, coding and science experiments.

Children in Forest Schools learn to cooperate and collaborate with their peers in an unstructured environment. They build a sense of community, where mutual support and teamwork are essential. These social skills are transferable to any context, preparing children for success in both academic and social settings.

As educators and parents alike seek well-rounded and impactful educational experiences, Forest Schools stand as a testament to the power of nature to shape young minds and spirits for a brighter, more connected future.

Heathside stands as a shining example of how an independent education can cultivate environmental stewards and nurture individuality while upholding academic rigour to instil a lifelong love of learning.

This article first appeared in the 2024 edition of Which School? You can view the digital version of the guidebook here: